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Total posts in category: 1482

How to Answer the Phone Professionally in a Veterinary Practice

Answering the phone is a core part of working on a veterinary reception desk, and it often shapes a client’s first impression of the practice. Each call can bring something different, from routine enquiries to urgent concerns about a pet’s health. The way these conversations are handled can make a real difference to how supported […]

12/10/2026

Can you start veterinary nurse training without experience

Can You Start Veterinary Nurse Training Without Experience in a Veterinary Practice?

One of the most common questions aspiring veterinary nurses ask is whether they can begin training without having worked in a veterinary practice before. Many people worry they may be at a disadvantage if they don’t already have hands-on clinical experience. It is possible to begin veterinary nurse training without prior employment or experience in […]

A female student sitting on a sofa reading a book

Balancing Work and Study: Tips for Looking After Your Mental Wellbeing (National Work Life Week and World Mental Health Day 2026)

Studying for a qualification can be rewarding, but fitting your studies around work, placements and everyday life isn’t always easy. As deadlines and other commitments begin to build up, it can sometimes feel like there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. With National Work Life Week and World Mental Health Day both taking place […]

05/10/2026

Person cleaning animal feed bowls

New to Apprenticeships? We’re Here to Make It Simple

If you’ve never employed an animal care apprentice before, you’re not alone – and you’re certainly not expected to know everything. At The College of Animal Welfare, we regularly work with employers who are completely new to apprenticeships and may feel unsure about where to start. The good news? We guide you through the entire […]

Is Your Dog Grooming Business Ready for an Apprentice

Is Your Dog Grooming Business Ready for an Apprentice? A Simple Self-Assessment for Employers

If your dog grooming salon is busy and you’re thinking about growing your team, you might be asking yourself: can my salon take on an apprentice? The good news is that many dog grooming businesses are already well suited to employing an apprentice, often without realising it. Our Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship is designed […]

02/10/2026

New £2,000 incentive for non-levy paying employers recruiting young apprentices

Thinking about taking on an apprentice? New incentive payments could make growing your team more cost effective than ever! From 1 October 2026, eligible employers (small and medium-sized businesses that do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy) may be able to receive up to £3,000 in incentive payments if they take on a new apprentice, broken […]

01/10/2026

Black History Month at The College of Animal Welfare

Black History Month 2026 at The College of Animal Welfare

Throughout October, The College of Animal Welfare is proud to observe Black History Month, an opportunity to explore Black history, culture and achievements while learning more about the experiences and contributions of Black people in the UK and around the world. Black History Month provides an opportunity to learn about stories and achievements that have […]

Inclusive Practice Award

Celebrating Inclusive Practice – Nominate a Staff Member Today!

Due to the success of last year’s student nominated Inclusive Practice Award, it is returning for 2026! The award will be presented to a member of CAW staff at out annual Student Awards Ceremony alongside our student award winners in November. This award is chance for our students to recognise a member of staff who […]

30/09/2026

How to Become a VCA

How to become a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA)

If you’re interested in working with animals and would like to be part of a veterinary team, becoming a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) could be a career path to consider. Veterinary Care Assistants – also known as a Patient Care Assistants (PCA) or Animal Nursing Assistants (ANA) – support veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and other […]

17/09/2026

What Do VCAs do

What does a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) do?

Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs) – also known as Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) or Animal Nursing Assistants (ANAs) – work as part of the veterinary team, providing support with the care of animals as well as a range of practical tasks within the practice. It can be a varied role and one that is important to […]